Scattered throughout the northeastern side of Kyushu are three shrines with centuries of cultural and archaeological history. The structures date back to the Munakata clan, who ruled over the region in the 6th century. Marked by prosperity, religious development, and international communication, the Munakata clan contributed a lasting legacy to the country, particularly in the development of Shinto rituals. These three shrines are the most exemplary lasting structures showcasing their contributions.

On the mainland, in Munakata , is Hetsumiya Shrine (known as Munakata Taisha), a site believed to be used for some of the first formal Shinto practices in Japan. The nearby island of Oshima is home to Nakatsumiya Shrine, an ancient structure with beautiful ocean views. The third shrine on Okinoshima is off limits to the public, but has a mysterious and fascinating history of its own.

Conveniently located on the mainland a short trip from the city of Fukuoka , Hetsumiya (also referred to as Munakata Taisha) is the most easily accessible of the three. While the structure is believed to have been erected in the 12th century, the site dates back to the earliest roots of the Shinto religion in the 6th century.

In addition to the well-preserved Shinto architecture and expansive grounds, the site is also home to the Shinpo-kan Museum, which contains some 80,000 artifacts and antiquities.

Located approximately 10 kilometers off Fukuoka's coast, the island of Oshima is home to the second Munakata shrine, Nakatsumiya. Disembarking from the ferry, you'll come across a torii gate and other small affiliated shrines. The main shrine sits at the foot of a mountain on the north side of the island.

The most famous of the three shrines is Okitsumiya, located on the remote island of Okinoshima . The shrine encompasses the entire island and is off limits. A solitary Shinto monk spends a 10-day interval at the shrine, performing rituals and maintaining the grounds.

The forbidden nature of the island is one of the reasons it remains so alluring. No one is permitted to visit the island, except for May 27th, when 200 men are allowed access as part of a ceremony commemorating Russian and Japanese soldiers who died in the Sea of Japan in 1905. Unfortunately, women are not allowed on the island under any circumstances.

Given their proximity to the Korean peninsula, it's no surprise that these ancient shrines share a close connection with Korean culture. Many archaeological artifacts found around the shrines originate from Korea and China, including earthenware, spades, pendants, iron accessories, and more. These items were left at the shrines as ritual offerings throughout the 6th and 10th centuries.

Near Hetsumiya Shrine on the mainland, you'll come across a series of tombs made from mounds of raised earth, with some resembling the shape of a keyhole. Built in the 6th and 7th centuries, these tombs house the remains of notable figures within the Munakata clan.

From Fukuoka , take a local or rapid train along the JR Kagoshima Main Line from Hakata Station to Togo Station.

From Kitakyushu , take a local or rapid train along the JR Kagoshima Main Line from Kokura Station to Togo Station.

To reach the island of Oshima, you can take a 25-minute ferry ride from Kono Ferry Port in Munakata .